IPPC drafts guide on risk-based inspection

Rome, 12 July 2023. Effective inspection of imported consignments at borders is critical in preventing the potential entry of plant pests into new areas. To support contracting parties in accomplishing this important function, the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) Secretariat is coordinating the development of a new guide for plants and plant products. By applying risk-based inspection, national plant protection organizations (NPPOs) can allocate their resources more efficiently and prevent the introduction and spread of plant pests.

Risk-based inspection involves adjusting the sampling intensity based on the phytosanitary risk associated with a specific commodity from a particular origin. By allocating inspection resources according to the level of risk, NPPOs can efficiently use inspection resources and staff time while protecting agricultural crops and the local flora from new pest introductions. Furthermore, this approach facilitates trade of low-risk commodities, enabling a more streamlined and agile process.

Internationally recognized experts from Africa, Central America, Europe, North America and South America are lending their expertise to draft the guide with the IPPC Secretariat. IPPC guides are developed following a transparent and inclusive process. International experts draft guides which undergo rigorous peer review to guarantee their quality and relevance to the international phytosanitary community at large.

In a working group meeting held last month, Barbara Peterson, Implementation and Facilitation Senior Officer at the secretariat welcomed the experts, noting “The working group's diverse composition will help ensure that the guide accurately reflects the different realities faced by a wide range of IPPC contracting parties.”

During the working group meeting, experts outlined the contents of the guide and produced an initial draft which will undergo further refinement and peer review before publication in 2024.

Related information:

Publication: Implementation of risk-based inspection for imported consigments